Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Isolated thunderstorms possible for Springfield area, severe weather not expected

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-020030-
Bourbon-Crawford-Cherokee-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-
St. Clair-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-
Laclede-Texas-Dent-Jasper-Dade-Greene-Webster-Wright-Newton-
Lawrence-Christian-Douglas-Howell-Shannon-McDonald-Barry-Stone-
Taney-Ozark-Oregon-
730 PM CDT Wed May 31 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of the Missouri
Ozarks and extreme southeast Kansas.

.DAY ONE...Tonight.

Weather hazards expected...

  Limited Hail risk.
  Elevated Thunderstorm wind damage risk.
  Limited Lightning risk.

DISCUSSION...

 Isolated thunderstorms will impact extreme southeastern Kansas
 and far southwestern Missouri this evening before diminishing.
 Severe weather is not expected this evening.

 Additional thunderstorms may develop late tonight and move into
 portions of central Missouri toward Thursday morning. There will
 be a limited risk for hail up to the size of quarters and
 damaging wind gusts to 60 mph if this activity develops.

 Otherwise frequent lightning and brief heavy rainfall could
 accompany any of these storms.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Thursday through Tuesday.

  Thunderstorms may persist into Thursday morning across the
  central and eastern Missouri Ozarks with a limited severe
  weather risk. Additional thunderstorms may then develop
  in the afternoon across portions of the Missouri Ozarks.

  More thunderstorms are then expected from later Friday into
  Saturday night or early Sunday as a storm system moves
  across the region.

  Chances for thunderstorms then look low for most of the
  outlook area for early next week.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

  Spotter activation will not be needed through tonight.

Springfield, Ash Grove men sentenced for roles in meth conspiracy

(From the U. S. Attorney for the Western District of Missouri)

A Springfield, Mo., man and an Ash Grove, Mo., man were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine.

Anthony J. Van Pelt, 38, of Springfield, and Brandon A. House, 33, of Ash Grove, were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool. Van Pelt was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison without parole. House was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison without parole.

Beginning in 2012, the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted by other agencies, investigated one of the largest methamphetamine distribution rings in southwest Missouri. The investigation resulted in the indictment of 28 co-defendants.

In 2013 through 2014, Daniel and Kenna Harmon, 38, of Republic, Mo., distributed in excess of 45 kilograms of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri. Van Pelt was one of the sources that provided methamphetamine to the Harmon drug-trafficking organization during this time. Kenna Harmon also obtained methamphetamine from other sources and provided distributive amounts to Van Pelt and to House, who was a mid-level distributor.

Van Pelt was arrested on Nov. 27, 2014, when he was found hiding under the bed in his residence during the execution of a search warrant. Van Pelt had been identified earlier in the day as the driver of a Ford Mustang parked in the driveway of Kenna Harmon’s residence. Police officers followed Van Pelt when he drove away from Kenna Harmon’s residence and conducted a traffic stop, but Van Pelt fled from the vehicle. Officers found $23,663 inside the vehicle.

When law enforcement officers executed the search warrant at Van Pelt’s residence later the same day, they found four rifles and numerous rounds of ammunition in the same bedroom where Van Pelt was hiding. Officers also found approximately 405 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana, and $3,990 in a hidden safe by the bedroom. An additional 36 grams of methamphetamine was seized out of the bedroom. Agents found a duffel bag in the garage of the residence that contained approximately 20 pounds of marijuana and 1,066 grams of methamphetamine (a total of approximately 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine).

Springfield police officers executed a search warrant at a residence on Dec. 12, 2013. House was present with two other persons, all of whom denied ownership of a baggie of methamphetamine and $4,000 seized by officers. House was also a passenger in a vehicle stopped by Springfield police officers on Jan. 27, 2014. Officers found $13,850 inside the vehicle.

A source of information told DEA agents that he purchased methamphetamine from House. According to this source, House was buying at least two pounds of methamphetamine every other day from Kenna Harmon.

On July 8, 2014, members of the COMET Drug Task Force conducted a check of a suspicious person inside a vehicle parked in a residential driveway in Nixa, Mo. House, who was clearly under the influence of a controlled substance, was passed out inside the vehicle. A Christian County deputy found 33.66 grams of methamphetamine, .77 grams of cocaine, $840, pills, blotted paper that appeared to be LSD, and glass smoking pipes inside the vehicle.

Kenna Harmon was arrested in November 2014. Agents searched various residences and vehicles belonging to Kenna Harmon and her co-conspirators and seized approximately five kilograms of methamphetamine and approximately $128,674. Kenna Harmon has pleaded guilty to being a leader in the drug-trafficking conspiracy as well as a money-laundering conspiracy and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Daniel Harmon was indicted in the Eastern District of Missouri and pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Randall D. Eggert, Nhan D. Nguyen and Cynthia J. Hyde. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

Highway Patrol Troop D reports 55 crashes, 16 DWI arrests over Memorial Day holiday weekend

(From Highway Patrol Troop D)

Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer, Troop D, Springfield, announces the following preliminary traffic and boating totals for the 2017 Memorial Day holiday period.

Troop D troopers participated in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) from Friday, May 26, 2017, through Monday, May 29, 2017, meaning every available officer was on the road enforcing traffic laws and assisting motorists. Troop D reported zero traffic fatalities, but investigated 55 traffic crashes that included 27 injuries. Troopers made 16 DWI arrests and 11 drug arrests.

The only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Every day as we travel on Missouri's roadways, we trust that every driver on the road is going to obey the speed limit, pay attention, and drive sober. "Don't Violate The Trust."

There were zero boating fatalities over the 2017 Memorial Day weekend in Troop D. Troopers assigned to area waterways within the Troop D region investigated one boat crash resulting in one injury. Troopers arrested five people for boating while intoxicated and made four drug arrests.

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!

Severe thunderstorm watch issued for Springfield area

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH OUTLINE UPDATE FOR WS 301
NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER NORMAN OK
140 PM CDT WED MAY 31 2017

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH 301 IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 800 PM CDT
FOR THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS

MOC009-011-013-015-037-039-043-057-059-077-083-085-097-109-119-
145-167-185-209-213-217-225-010100-
/O.NEW.KWNS.SV.A.0301.170531T1840Z-170601T0100Z/

MO
.    MISSOURI COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

BARRY                BARTON              BATES
BENTON               CASS                CEDAR
CHRISTIAN            DADE                DALLAS
GREENE               HENRY               HICKORY
JASPER               LAWRENCE            MCDONALD
NEWTON               POLK                ST. CLAIR
STONE                TANEY               VERNON
WEBSTER

Capital improvement grants awarded to eight Springfield neighborhoods

(From the City of Springfield)

Eight registered neighborhoods in Springfield will soon be seeing improvements to their parks thanks to a competitive grant made possible through the voter-approved 1/4-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax.
In April 2016, Springfield voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal of the City’s 1/4-cent Capital Improvements Sales Tax. New to the tax this cycle is a set-aside of $500,000 annually for a neighborhood initiative program, now known as the Neighborhood Works Program.
Neighborhood Works is intended to fund small-scale capital improvements within neighborhoods, giving residents the opportunity to identify the projects they believe would offer the greatest benefit to their neighborhoods.
Because funding is limited, a competitive application process was established using specific evaluation criteria. Individual projects were limited to a maximum cost of $100,000, and only officially registered neighborhood associations  could apply after attending a mandatory application workshop. All projects were also required to be located on City property or right-of-way.
Submitted applications were assessed by City staff for feasibility and cost, then passed to a special committee formed by the Neighborhood Advisory Council for scoring and award recommendations. City Manager Greg Burris approved the committee’s final recommendations and announced the projects approved for funding at the May NAC meeting. 
The following neighborhood projects were approved for funding in 2017:
Tom Watkins Park Improvements - Tom Watkins Neighborhood
The project consists of improvements to increase functionality of the park including the installation of four new lights placed in the central area of the park, the installation of new disc golf tee pads and disc golf course and tee signs and drainage improvements west of the Tom Watkins Community Center.
Lafayette Park Improvements - Woodland Heights Neighborhood
Improvements include the addition of solar lighting for the tennis court and the installation of electrical outlets on the east side of the Charlie Norr Community Center, the west side of the tennis court and near the pavilion. 
L.A. Wise Park Improvements - Bissett Neighborhood
The project includes the installation of a 30’ x 40’ pavilion with picnic tables and the installation of lighting and electrical service at the pavilion.
Washington Park Improvements - Midtown Neighborhood
This project includes maintenance to the existing basketball and tennis courts.  Improvements to the basketball court include the sealing of cracks, a new asphalt overlay, new striping and the installation of a new basketball goal and backboard. The tennis court will receive a new asphalt overlay with new surface and striping and new posts and net will be installed. Permanent bench seating will also be installed on the sides of both courts.
Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park Enhancements - West Central Neighborhood
This project consists of the installation of picnic tables and park benches within the Birthplace of Route 66 Roadside Park.
Grant Beach Park Improvements - Grant Beach Neighborhood
This project includes new electrical service and lighting installed at the park pavilion. In addition, new wood poles with sports lights will be installed and two existing sport light fixtures will be replaced on the sports field. 
Phelps Grove Park Parking Lot Improvements - Phelps Grove Neighborhood
This project includes improvements to and expansion of parking on the east side of Phelps Grove Park to improve traffic flow for safety of drivers and pedestrians. Cracks on the existing asphalt will be repaired and a new asphalt overlay will be provided. Improvements will include new striping and handicap parking symbols and signs. In addition, curb for two islands will be installed along Virginia Avenue. 
Giboney Cave Electrical Upgrades – Doling Neighborhood
This project includes improvements within Doling Park with electrical upgrades at the entrance to Giboney Cave to accommodate a sound system and lighting for events such as Concert at the Cave.
Two additional projects were recommended as alternates to be funded if costs for the base projects are completed under budget.
West Avenue Sidewalk Addition - Westside Neighborhood
Construction of a sidewalk on the south half of the 200 block of South West Avenue, between Walnut Street and the alley to the north.
Pavilion Upgrades at Doling Park - Doling Neighborhood
Installation of electrical upgrades at the pavilion in Doling Park.
The application process for the next Neighborhood Works grant cycle will begin in the fall. 
Pictured left to right during the grand presentation at the Springfield City Council meeting are Joe Roberds, Westside Betterment Neighborhood Association; Fred Ackley, Doling Neighborhood Association; Eric Pauly, Phelps Grove Neighborhood Association; Anita Kuhns, Grant Beach Neighborhood Association; Becky Volz, Woodland Heights Neighborhood Association; Marti Mowery, Tom Watkins Neighborhood Association; Alia Lee and Marie Wood, Midtown Neighborhood Association.

Elevated risk of hail, wind damage, lightning tonight in southwest Missouri

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Springfield MO
1020 AM CDT Wed May 31 2017

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-011530-
Bourbon-Crawford-Cherokee-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-
St. Clair-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-
Laclede-Texas-Dent-Jasper-Dade-Greene-Webster-Wright-Newton-
Lawrence-Christian-Douglas-Howell-Shannon-McDonald-Barry-Stone-
Taney-Ozark-Oregon-
1020 AM CDT Wed May 31 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of the Missouri
Ozarks and extreme southeast Kansas.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

Weather hazards expected...

  Elevated Hail risk.
  Elevated Thunderstorm wind damage risk.
  Elevated Lightning risk.

DISCUSSION...

  An area of showers and isolated thunderstorms continue to track
  south across portions of southeastern Kansas and southwestern
  Missouri late this morning. This activity is weakening and no
  severe weather is expected. Occasional cloud to ground lightning
  strikes will occur with the storms before the completely
  diminishing around midday.

  Additional scattered thunderstorms will then develop this
  afternoon into this evening, especially north of the U.S. 60
  corridor. Some of these storms may become severe, with hail up
  to the size of ping pong balls, damaging wind gusts to 60 mph,
  and frequent lightning being the primary potential hazards. The
  greatest risk for severe storms will be west of U.S. 65 and
  north of U.S. 60.

  A complex of thunderstorms is then expected to develop late
  tonight and shift into portions of central Missouri. There
  is a limited risk for hail up to the size of quarters and
  damaging wind gusts to 60 mph as these storms shift
  southeast across central Missouri. Frequent lightning and
  brief heavy rainfall can also be expected with these storms.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Thursday through Tuesday.

  Thunderstorms may persist into Thursday morning across the
  central and eastern Missouri Ozarks with a limited severe
  weather risk. Additional thunderstorms may then develop
  in the afternoon across portions of the Missouri Ozarks.

  More thunderstorms are then expected from later Friday into
  Saturday night or early Sunday as a storm system moves
  across the region.

  Chances for thunderstorms then look low for most of the
  outlook area for early next week.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

  Spotter activation may be needed for this afternoon and
  tonight, mainly west of U.S. 65 and north of U.S. 60.

Battlefield man injured in one-vehicle accident

A Battlefield man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 12:25 p.m. Tuesday on Route M west of Farm Road 115.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2014 Chevrolet Captiva driven by Britt L. Beneke, 37, Battlefield, crossed the center line, traveled off the left side of the road, and struck a fence.

Beneke was treated for moderate injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Tuesday, May 30, 2017

City manager wraps up annual budget workshop

(From the City of Springfield)


City Manager Greg Burris wrapped up five weeks of budget workshops Tuesday, May 30, proposing a $348 million  balanced budget, with $83 million comprising the General Fund, the City’s primary operating fund. The first reading and public hearing for the budget took place tonight at 6:30 p.m. in Historic City Hall.

City Council requested two amendments to Burris’ proposed budget: the first amendment proposes funding to overhire three recruits during the Springfield Police Department’s annual Academy and unfreeze and reclassify two SPD support staff  for a total cost of approximately $173,000. The request will be funded by reallocating funds budgeted as part of a three-year plan approved by Council in FY16 for the costs associated with holding two academy classes per year. The second Fiscal Year 2017 (FY17) academy class is due to graduate Sept. 1, 2017 and the next (and only) FY18 class is scheduled to begin Jan. 8, 2018.

The second amendment will seek to decrease proposed funding for the City’s planned MyCity customer service initiative by $20,000 in order to fund an intersection safety study.
The City’s fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30 each year. Revenue projections are made several months in advance, with the adopted budget due by June 30. The City Charter outlines the process for the budget’s creation, which requires the City Manager to present a balanced budget to City Council for consideration at least 60 days prior to each budget year.

City operations are classified into fund groups for budget purpose. The General Fund covers most Police and Fire operations, Public Works, Planning and Development, Building Development Services and all administrative support functions. It relies on sales and use taxes for the majority of its revenue.

The City’s budget for the remaining governmental funds are specific to designated revenue sources and the restricted activities and services that are provided by those funds. The business-type funds are those funds that are fully supported by user fees.  These “enterprise funds” are the airport, sewer, landfill and golf fund which generates fees that fully cover the costs of operations, including all capital acquisitions. 

These enterprise funds operate without tax revenue or support from other City funds. Representatives from the Springfield-Branson National Airport, Springfield Art Museum, Environmental Services, Springfield-Greene County Park Board, Springfield-Greene County Health Department and the Department of Workforce Development gave brief overviews of their individual budgets in today’s workshop.

City Finance Director David Holtmann projects a disappointing end to the City’s current fiscal year 2017 (FY17), ending June 30. Although two months remain, Holtmann doesn’t expect sales tax to hit budgeted projections – a shortfall that could create challenges over the coming months for City departments. City Council has already committed to covering the shortfall with FY16 carryover funds.

“The volatility of our main revenue source (sales tax) for the General Fund and the transformative changes occurring in retail are making life difficult for municipalities across the country – not just in Springfield,” said Burris. “E-commerce is booming while retail brick-and-mortar stores are struggling, and even closing. Until there is an Internet sales tax, there will not be a level playing field and I suspect we will see many more closures of brick-and-mortar stores until the field is leveled.”

Defunct shopping centers represent lost tax dollars for already cash-strapped municipalities.  Three major retailers have closed stores in Springfield within the past few months: Staples, MC Sports and Kmart. About 30% of citizens surveyed recently reported making retail purchases online. According to a story published in The Atlantic on April 30, thousands of store closings nationwide are projected through 2017, which is likely to surpass the Great Recession year of 2008.

Increases in other revenues, however, that are anticipated to exceed their FY17 budget, such as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOTs) from City Utilities and increases in revenue generated from licenses, fines and fees, are helping to offset the disappointing sales tax figures. 

Fiscal year 2018 (18) total revenues are budgeted to increase only 0.9% over budgeted FY17, with sales tax projected 1.3% lower than sales tax budgeted for FY17.

As always, the budget requests received by the City Manager from City departments far exceed available funding. “All of the requests are for needed items and would improve the service we are able to provide our citizens,” Burris said. “We are committed to living within our means and our departments have done a remarkable job of that, based on citizen satisfaction scores and voter confidence in sales tax renewals. It’s clear, though, that a new funding model – and one that does not raise taxes – is needed.

At the first FY2017-2018 budget workshop May 2, Mayor Ken McClure brought an idea forward to consider the use of Level Property Tax as a potential tool to help address capital improvement needs that are currently unfunded. Instituted in the 1980s, the program consists of taxpayers currently paying a “level” property tax of 27 cents on each $100 of assessed property value. The revenues have been used to fund large-scale capital projects, such as: Fire station construction, apparatus, and associated equipment; an emergency storm warning system; Jordan Valley Park land acquisitions; some stormwater improvements and public facilities maintenance.

Some past projects funded by the Level Property Tax are “rolling off” (completing bond payments), so some funds will available in FY18 and beyond to address urgent capital improvement needs. Voter approval use of this funding source for public capital improvements would not result in any additional cost to the taxpayers.

City Council directed staff to do additional research about the potential use of Level Property Tax for further discussion.

Where to Find Budget DetailsThroughout the budget workshop process (May 1 - June 30), the public has access to both the proposed budget and the later adopted budget online at Springfieldmo.gov/Budget and at the City’s data portal:  Springfieldmo.gov/OpenData.

On both of these web pages, there are links to full line item detail budget reports in addition to helpful summaries.

Printed copies of the proposed budget are available at a cost of $45.44 (the cost of printing).

Complete video- Tonight's Springfield City Councll meeting

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests May 29-30

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Kelli K. Lovatt, 42, Goodman
Daniel T. Hilton, 33, Springfield (boating while intoxicated)
Anthony R. Durham, 30, Springfield
Neil J. Lucas, 58, 58, Lavista, Nebraska, (boating while intoxicated)

Monday, May 29, 2017

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests May 28-29

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Michael C. Etherton, 57, Kansas City, Kansas
Eduardo Hernandez, 25, Neosho
Tammy J McSwain, 51, Verona
Dominic E. Morris, 32, Springfield
William C. Norton, 21, Lee's Summit
Dayton J. Golden, 22, Stark City

Sunday, May 28, 2017

Springfield man seriously injured in accident near Republic

A Springfield man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 8:30 p..m. Saturday on Farm Raod 57, two miles southwest of Republic.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2012 Nissan Rouge driven by Richard A. Massey-Scott, 22, Springfield, left the roadway, struck a concrete culvert and a road sign and rolled several times.

Massey-Scott was treated for serious injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Nixa man injured in one-vehicle accident

A Nixa man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 3:30 a.m. today on Sanders Valley Road, two miles north of Nixa.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2011 Dodge Journey driven by Kevin R. Romines, 52, Nixa, ran off the roadway, struck a tree and overturned.

Romines was treated for minor injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.

Aurora motorcyclist seriously injured in head-on collision near Cape Fair

An Aurora man was injured in a two-vehicle accident 2 p.m. Saturday on Route EE, five miles east of Cape Fair.

According to the Highway Patrol report, Andrew C. Gaston, 27, Aurora, driving a 2003 Harley Davidson 20C, lost control, crossed the center line and and struck the front of a 2012 GMC Acadia driven by Shannon N. Brewer, 44, Aurora.

Gaston was treated for serious injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests May 27-28

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Mindy M. Burdette, 38, Springfield
Stormy R. Donaldson, 21, Dixon
Callie M. McNeil, 22, Verona
Emily M. Francis, 20, Springfield
Brian D. Uhlhorn, 39, Springfield
Joshua A. Harris, 25, Billings
Andrew C. Hurtig, 23, Roeland Park, Kansas (boating while intoxicated)

Saturday, May 27, 2017

Flash flood warning issued for Barry, Lawrence, Christian counties

Flash Flood Warning
MOC009-043-109-119-145-209-213-280530-
/O.NEW.KSGF.FF.W.0054.170528T0025Z-170528T0530Z/
/00000.0.ER.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.OO/

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED
Flash Flood Warning
National Weather Service Springfield MO
725 PM CDT SAT MAY 27 2017

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...
  Southern Newton County in southwestern Missouri...
  Christian County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northern Taney County in southwestern Missouri...
  Stone County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northern McDonald County in southwestern Missouri...
  Barry County in southwestern Missouri...
  Southeastern Lawrence County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 1230 AM CDT

* At 725 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
  heavy rain across the warned area. Up to two inches of rain has
  already fallen. Flash flooding is expected to begin shortly.

* Creeks, streams, and low water crossings will be especially
  susceptible to the dangers of flash flooding.
  Locations in the warning include...
  Nixa...                           Ozark...
  Neosho...                         Branson...
  Big Sugar Creek State Park...     Roaring River State Park...
  Monett...                         Aurora...
  Cassville...                      Silver Dollar City...
  Kimberling City...                Forsyth...
  Anderson...                       Merriam Woods...
  Sparta...                         Crane...
  Shell Knob...                     Goodman...
  Purdy...                          Reeds Spring...

This warning includes but is not limited to the following low water
crossings...
Highway 43 at Buffalo Creek west of Anderson...
Highway 13 at Railey Creek near Reeds Spring...
Highway 13 at Pine Run northwest of Galena...
Route U at Pedelo Creek northeast of Sparta...
and Route Y at Flat Creek just northeast of Cassville.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring.
If you are in the warned area move to higher ground immediately.
Residents living along streams and creeks should take immediate
precautions to protect life and property.

Tornado watch for Springfield area extended to 2 a.m.

TORNADO WATCH OUTLINE UPDATE FOR WT 284
NWS STORM PREDICTION CENTER NORMAN OK
700 PM CDT SAT MAY 27 2017

TORNADO WATCH 284 IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 200 AM CDT FOR THE
 FOLLOWING LOCATIONS

MOC009-023-035-043-067-069-077-091-097-109-119-143-145-149-153-
155-181-203-207-209-213-215-223-225-229-280700-
/O.NEW.KWNS.TO.A.0284.170528T0000Z-170528T0700Z/

MO
.    MISSOURI COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

BARRY                BUTLER              CARTER
CHRISTIAN            DOUGLAS             DUNKLIN
GREENE               HOWELL              JASPER
LAWRENCE             MCDONALD            NEWTON
NEW MADRID           OREGON              OZARK
PEMISCOT             RIPLEY              SHANNON
STODDARD             STONE               TANEY
TEXAS                WAYNE               WEBSTER
WRIGHT

Severe thunderstorm warning extended for NW Greene County, Dade, Polk counties

BULLETIN - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
National Weather Service Springfield MO
645 PM CDT SAT MAY 27 2017

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
  Southwestern Polk County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northwestern Greene County in southwestern Missouri...
  Dade County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 730 PM CDT

* At 645 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Golden City,
  or 11 miles west of Greenfield, moving east at 35 mph.

  HAZARD...Quarter size hail.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated.

  IMPACT...Damage to vehicles is expected.

* Locations impacted include...
  Stockton Lake...                  Ash Grove...
  Greenfield...                     Lockwood...
  Walnut Grove...                   Everton...
  Dadeville...                      South Greenfield...
  Aldrich...                        Sacville...
  Cave Springs...                   Eudora...
  Pennsboro...                      Meinert...
  Bona...

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

&&

A tornado watch remains in effect until 700 PM CDT for southwestern
Missouri.

Flash flood warning issued for Springfield area



Flash Flood Warning
MOC009-043-077-097-109-145-280330-
/O.NEW.KSGF.FF.W.0053.170527T2329Z-170528T0330Z/
/00000.0.ER.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.OO/

BULLETIN - EAS ACTIVATION REQUESTED
Flash Flood Warning
National Weather Service Springfield MO
629 PM CDT SAT MAY 27 2017

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for...
  Newton County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northwestern Christian County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northwestern Barry County in southwestern Missouri...
  Lawrence County in southwestern Missouri...
  Greene County in southwestern Missouri...
  Southeastern Jasper County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 1030 PM CDT

* At 629 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing
  heavy rain across the warned area. Up to two inches of rain has
  already fallen. Flash flooding is expected to begin shortly.

* Creeks, streams, and low water crossings will be especially
  susceptible to the dangers of flash flooding.
  Locations in the warning include...
  Springfield...                    Southern Joplin...
  Nixa...                           Ozark...
  Republic...                       Carthage...
  Neosho...                         Monett...
  Aurora...                         Battlefield...
  Willard...                        Mount Vernon...
  Strafford...                      Seneca...
  Marionville...                    Clever...
  Granby...                         Duquesne...
  Fair Grove...                     Sarcoxie...

This warning includes but is not limited to the following low water
crossings...

Business Highway 60 just north of Neosho...
Highway 97 at The Spring River north of Stotts City...
Highway 37 at The Spring River southwest of Avilla...
Scenic Avenue in southwest Springfield...
and Route F, 3 miles northeast of Reeds.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or occurring.
If you are in the warned area move to higher ground immediately.
Residents living along streams and creeks should take immediate
precautions to protect life and property.

Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Greene, Lawrence, Christian, Stone counties

BULLETIN - IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
National Weather Service Springfield MO
614 PM CDT SAT MAY 27 2017

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
  Northern Christian County in southwestern Missouri...
  Northern Stone County in southwestern Missouri...
  Lawrence County in southwestern Missouri...
  Southern Greene County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 715 PM CDT

* At 614 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Billings, or
  near Republic, moving east at 50 mph.

  HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and half dollar size hail.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated.

  IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage
           to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...
  Springfield...                    Nixa...
  Ozark...                          Republic...
  Monett...                         Aurora...
  Battlefield...                    Mount Vernon...
  Rogersville...                    Strafford...
  Marionville...                    Clever...
  Sparta...                         Pierce City...
  Billings...                       Highlandville...
  Fremont Hills...                  Miller...
  Verona...                         Brookline...

This includes Interstate 44 between mile markers 38 and 90.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

&&

A tornado watch remains in effect until 700 PM CDT for southwestern
Missouri.

Severe thunderstorm warning issued for Springfield area

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
  Greene County in southwestern Missouri...

* Until 645 PM CDT

* At 555 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located near Willard, or
  10 miles north of Republic, moving east at 35 mph.

  HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated.

  IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage
           to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...
  Springfield...                    Republic...
  Willard...                        Strafford...
  Ash Grove...                      Fair Grove...
  Walnut Grove...                   Brookline...
  Sacville...                       Glidewell...
  Ebenezer...                       Bassville...
  Turners...                        Bois D`arc...
  Cave Springs...

This includes Interstate 44 between mile markers 59 and 68, and
between mile markers 70 and 89, and near mile marker 91.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a
building.

&&

A tornado watch remains in effect until 700 PM CDT for southwestern
Missouri.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests May 26-27

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Delcia L. Robertson, 45, Springfield
Michael L. Carroll, 45, Fredericktown
Jennifer D. Blackerby, 36, Anderson

Two to four inches of rain expected for Springfield area, flash flood watch issued

...Excessive Rainfall Possible This Afternoon and Tonight...

.At midday...Showers and thunderstorms had begun to develop along
a warm front currently situated across southern Missouri. Given
the upper level pattern...the potential exists for these storms to
begin training along the front from west to east later this
afternoon into tonight. Overall...the area can expect rainfall
amounts in the one to two inch range with localized amounts of up
to 4 inches possible.

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-280030-
/O.NEW.KSGF.FF.A.0006.170527T1800Z-170528T1200Z/
/00000.0.ER.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.000000T0000Z.OO/
Bourbon-Crawford-Cherokee-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-
St. Clair-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-
Laclede-Texas-Dent-Jasper-Dade-Greene-Webster-Wright-Newton-
Lawrence-Christian-Douglas-Howell-Shannon-McDonald-Barry-Stone-
Taney-Ozark-Oregon-
Including the cities of Fort Scott, Pawnee Station, Chicopee,
Lone Oak, Pittsburg, Baxter Springs, Lowell, Riverton, Columbus,
Neutral, Sherwin, Stippville, Warsaw, Whitakerville, Cole Camp,
Crockerville, Mora, Edmonson, Lincoln, Versailles, Rocky Mount,
Stover, Laurie, Aurora Springs, Eldon, Lake Ozark, Vichy, NEVADA,
Tiffin, Appleton City, Johnson City, Weaubleau, Hermitage,
Quincy, Wheatland, Cross Timbers, Osage Beach, Camdenton,
Decaturville, Roach, Village of Four Seasons, Fort Leonard Wood,
Laquey, Waynesville, Northwye, Rolla, Kenoma, Lamar,
Cedar Springs, El Dorado Springs, Filley, Arnica,
Caplinger Mills, Stockton, Bolivar, Buffalo, Charity, Foose,
March, Plad, Windyville, Olive, Lynchburg, Lebanon, Plato, Roby,
Bendavis, Huggins, Lake Spring, Bangert, Darien, Gladden, Howes,
Jadwin, Salem, Joplin, Carthage, Greenfield, Lockwood, Meinert,
Springfield, Marshfield, Northview, Seymour, Rogersville, Dawson,
Graff, Mountain Grove, Duncan, Mansfield, Neosho, Aurora,
Mount Vernon, Marionville, Nixa, Christian Center, Ozark,
Selmore, Vanzant, Ava, Goodhope, Rome, Squires, Dogwood, Pomona,
Pottersville, Siloam Springs, South Fork, West Plains,
White Church, Teresita, Winona, Birch Tree, Montier, Anderson,
Noel, Goodman, South West City, Pineville, Rocky Comfort, Monett,
Madry, Cassville, Kimberling City, Crane, Elsey, Indian Point,
Silver Dollar City, Branson, Hollister, Kirbyville,
Edgewater Beach, Forsyth, Ozark Beach, Powersite, Wasola, Thayer,
Alton, Couch, Greer, Thomasville, and Wilderness
1121 AM CDT Sat May 27 2017

...FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT THROUGH 7AM CDT SUNDAY MORNING...

The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a

* Flash Flood Watch for portions of southeast Kansas and
  Missouri, including the following areas, in southeast Kansas,
  Bourbon, Cherokee, and Crawford. In Missouri, Barry, Barton,
  Benton, Camden, Cedar, Christian, Dade, Dallas, Dent, Douglas,
  Greene, Hickory, Howell, Jasper, Laclede, Lawrence, Maries,
  McDonald, Miller, Morgan, Newton, Oregon, Ozark, Phelps, Polk,
  Pulaski, Shannon, St. Clair, Stone, Taney, Texas, Vernon,
  Webster, and Wright.

* Through 7 AM CDT Sunday morning

* Multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms will track along a
  frontal boundary situated across the region this afternoon into
  tonight. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are likely with
  localized heavier amounts of up to 4 inches possible.

* This rainfall will lead to the potential for flash flooding of
  low-lying areas including low water crossings as well as rapid
  rises on creeks and streams. Those camping on gravel bars or
  floating area rivers should be especially cautious as streams
  and rivers can rise very quickly.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flash Flood Watch means that conditions may develop that lead
to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action
should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

Tornado watch issued for Springfield area

TORNADO WATCH 275 IS IN EFFECT UNTIL 700 PM CDT FOR THE
 FOLLOWING LOCATIONS

MOC009-011-013-015-017-019-023-027-029-035-037-039-043-051-053-
055-057-059-065-067-071-073-077-083-085-089-091-093-095-097-099-
101-105-107-109-119-123-125-131-135-139-141-145-149-151-153-157-
159-161-167-169-179-181-185-186-187-195-203-209-213-215-217-219-
221-223-225-229-280000-
/O.NEW.KWNS.TO.A.0275.170527T1715Z-170528T0000Z/

MO
.    MISSOURI COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

BARRY                BARTON              BATES
BENTON               BOLLINGER           BOONE
BUTLER               CALLAWAY            CAMDEN
CARTER               CASS                CEDAR
CHRISTIAN            COLE                COOPER
CRAWFORD             DADE                DALLAS
DENT                 DOUGLAS             FRANKLIN
GASCONADE            GREENE              HENRY
HICKORY              HOWARD              HOWELL
IRON                 JACKSON             JASPER
JEFFERSON            JOHNSON             LACLEDE
LAFAYETTE            LAWRENCE            MADISON
MARIES               MCDONALD            MILLER
MONITEAU             MONTGOMERY          MORGAN
NEWTON               OREGON              OSAGE
OZARK                PERRY               PETTIS
PHELPS               POLK                PULASKI
REYNOLDS             RIPLEY              SALINE
SHANNON              ST. CLAIR           ST. FRANCOIS
STE. GENEVIEVE       STONE               TANEY
TEXAS                VERNON              WARREN
WASHINGTON           WAYNE               WEBSTER
WRIGHT

Elevated tornado risk this afternoon, tonight for Springfield area

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Springfield MO
554 AM CDT Sat May 27 2017

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-281100-
Bourbon-Crawford-Cherokee-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-
St. Clair-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-
Laclede-Texas-Dent-Jasper-Dade-Greene-Webster-Wright-Newton-
Lawrence-Christian-Douglas-Howell-Shannon-McDonald-Barry-Stone-
Taney-Ozark-Oregon-
554 AM CDT Sat May 27 2017

...Severe Thunderstorms Likely This Afternoon and Evening...

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of the Missouri
Ozarks and extreme southeast Kansas.

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight.

Weather hazards expected...

  Elevated Tornado risk.
  Significant Hail risk.
  Significant Thunderstorm wind damage risk.
  Significant Lightning risk.

DISCUSSION...

  Strong to severe storms will develop and impact the Ozarks this
  afternoon into tonight as very strong instability and wind
  shear develop ahead of a cold front.

  A line of thunderstorms producing widespread damaging wind
  gusts appears increasingly likely. Gusts over 75 mph will be
  possible. Tornadoes will also be possible with any portions of
  the line which bow towards the east. If this line of storms
  materializes, there will be the potential for power outages.

  There will also be the potential for some supercell
  thunderstorms, especially this afternoon and early this
  evening as storms initially begin to develop. If these
  supercells do form, hail up to the size of baseballs, damaging
  winds, and tornadoes will all be possible.

  Along with the risk for severe thunderstorms, frequent
  lightning and locally heavy rainfall can be expected. Localized
  flooding of low water crossings will be possible where the
  heavier rainfall occurs.

  Those with outdoor plans this afternoon and tonight are urged
  to pay close attention to the weather and have a plan in place
  to move to a sturdy shelter when severe weather threatens.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Sunday through Friday.

  A few lingering strong to severe storms will impact portions of
  south central Missouri Sunday morning before the system moves
  completely through the region. Large hail and damaging winds
  will be the primary concern.

  The next chance of storms comes towards the end of next week.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

  Spotter activation will be needed this afternoon and tonight
  for most of the Missouri Ozarks and southeastern Kansas.

Friday, May 26, 2017

Sanitary sewer smoke testing set for Robberson, Woodland Heights neighborhoods

(From the City of Springfield)

The City of Springfield’s Clean Water Services division will perform sanitary sewer smoke testing in the Robberson and Woodland Heights neighborhoods starting Tuesday, May 30.

The sewers being tested are along Glenstone Avenue between Division Street and Chestnut Expressway. Testing will last one week, weather permitting.

Smoke testing is conducted to locate leaks in the sanitary sewer system. Harmless, odorless smoke is blown into sewer manholes in the street, goes through the pipes and comes out where there are broken pipes and where roof downspouts, outside area drains, or foundation drains are connected to the sanitary sewers. The smoke testing program is part of the City’s $200 million overflow control plan to reduce sanitary sewer overflows in Springfield’s aging sewer system over the next 10 years.

Business 60 railroad bridge project scheduled to start

(From MODOT)

Business 60 RR Bridge Project Scheduled to Start;
Public Invited to June 6 Meeting to Announce Project Schedule


Lawrence County – People who live and work in the Monett area and use Business 60 east of Monett are encouraged to attend a public meeting Tuesday, June 6, to learn more about plans to close the road to replace an aging railroad bridge, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.

The come-and-go style meeting is planned from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, at the Monett Chamber of Commerce at 200 E. Broadway Street. NO formal presentation is planned.

Those unable to attend the in-person meeting can visit an online public meeting at www.modot.gov/southwest. The same exhibits displayed at the in-person meeting will be available online.

MoDOT representatives will be on hand at the in-person meeting to visit with area residents about the plan to rebuild the bridge with a higher and wider structure. The project is scheduled to begin the week of June 19 and that’s when Business 60 will close for the duration of the project.

Contractor crews have until Dec. 29, 2017 to complete the bridge and open the road to traffic. However, barring any construction delays or weather delays, crews expect to complete the work and reopen Business 60 by the fall.

While Business 60 is closed, a detour will be set up using U.S. Route 60. Drivers can also use Lawrence County Route W to get around the project.

The existing Business 60 bridge was built in 1935 and carries 3,480 vehicles a day. Over the past several years, the bridge has been in need of frequent repairs.

The new bridge will be 30 feet wide and will no longer have a height restriction because the overhead truss system will be removed.

Hartman & Company, Inc. of Springfield is the prime contractor on the project.

The total estimated project cost is $3.7 million.

Strong to severe storms possible for Springfield area

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Springfield MO
523 PM CDT Fri May 26 2017

KSZ073-097-101-MOZ055>058-066>071-077>083-088>098-101>106-272230-
Bourbon-Crawford-Cherokee-Benton-Morgan-Miller-Maries-Vernon-
St. Clair-Hickory-Camden-Pulaski-Phelps-Barton-Cedar-Polk-Dallas-
Laclede-Texas-Dent-Jasper-Dade-Greene-Webster-Wright-Newton-
Lawrence-Christian-Douglas-Howell-Shannon-McDonald-Barry-Stone-
Taney-Ozark-Oregon-
523 PM CDT Fri May 26 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of the Missouri
Ozarks and extreme southeast Kansas.

.DAY ONE...Tonight.

Weather hazards expected...

  Limited Hail risk.
  Limited Lightning risk.
  Limited Damaging Wind risk.

DISCUSSION...

  A weak boundary across southern Missouri will be the focus area
  for scattered thunderstorms to possibly develop late evening
  into the overnight. There is uncertainty on this development
  due to an elevated cap in the atmosphere. Coverage should be
  isolated to widely scattered in nature with the primary threat
  being large hail up to the size of half dollars possible. There
  may be an isolated damaging wind gust up to 60 mph possible
 overnight as well.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday.

  Overall...the best chance for strong to severe storms will
  occur from Saturday afternoon into Saturday night as the cap
  weakens and very strong instability develops ahead of a cold
  front which will move through Saturday night.

  The main risks will be large hail up to the size of baseballs
  and damaging wind in excess of 70 mph. The possibility exists
  for a tornado or two as well.

  With the risk of severe thunderstorms...frequent lightning and
  heavy rainfall will be possible. Localized flooding of low
  water crossings may be possible where the heavier rainfall
  occurs.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

  Spotter activation may be needed late this evening and
  overnight across southern Missouri.

Willard man injured in accident near South Greenfield

A Willard man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 6:30 p.m. Thursday on South Dade 138, four miles east of South Greenfield.

According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2009 Ford F250 driven by Landon D. Vonnostrand, 20, Springfield, traveled off the road and struck a tree.

A passenger, Curtis D. Love, 18, Willard, was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.

Highway Patrol DWI Arrests May 25-26

The Missouri Highway Patrol arrested the following people for driving while intoxicated:

Jeremy C. Phillips, 21, Neosho
Savannah M. Banfield, 31, Branson
Steven R. Love-Archibeque, 30, Springfield

Highway Patrol to hold moving violations checkpoints in Greene, Christian counties

(From Highway Patrol Troop D)

Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer, Troop D, Springfield, announces that sometime during the month of June 2017, Troop D will conduct DWI saturations in McDonald, Stone, and Taney counties. The areas selected for enforcement are based on a high number of drinking-related crashes, high number of contacts with drivers who have been drinking, and officers’ input as to probable contact with DWI violators. The sobering fact is that impaired driving contributes to more than 23 percent of all Missouri fatal traffic crashes (preliminary 2016 statistics). That’s why the Missouri State Highway Patrol will be cracking down on impaired driving throughout the month of June.

Additionally, the Patrol will be conducting hazardous moving violation saturations in Christian, Greene, and Jasper counties. The primary goal of these projects is to positively impact traffic problems by reducing crashes. The objectives are to heighten the awareness of the risks associated with impaired driving and increase compliance of the speed limit and seat belt laws.

“The Missouri State Highway Patrol is committed to removing unsafe drivers from our highways,” said Captain Villanueva. “Saturations are part of the Patrol’s strategy to make Missouri’s roadways safer.”

The only 100 percent survivable traffic crash is the one that never happens. Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. Every day as we travel on Missouri’s roadways, we trust that every driver on the road is going to obey the speed limit, pay attention, and drive sober. “Don’t Violate The Trust.”

Thursday, May 25, 2017

New Springfield Fire Chief to be sworn in Friday


(From the Springfield Fire Department)

Springfield’s new Fire Chief David Pennington will take his oath of office at 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 26 at Fire Station #1, 720 E. Grand.

A fire chief search committee comprised of City staff, Liberty Fire Chief Mike Snider and local emergency service agencies highly recommended Pennington to City Manager Greg Burris, after a nationwide search.

Pennington has served as the interim fire chief since Jan. 27, when former chief David Hall retired from the Fire Department in February to join Missouri State University as its first emergency preparedness manager.

“While we received a high-quality applicant pool, when comparing the breadth and depth of experience of the top candidates, it became evident that the City’s internal candidate, Assistant Chief David Pennington, stood out with regard to the needs of the Springfield Fire Department,” said City Manager Greg Burris. “His educational and professional accomplishments, departmental knowledge, experience and expertise, as well as enthusiasm for leading our Fire Department in the coming years propelled him to the top of a capable and well-qualified group.”

Pennington began his fire service career as a volunteer firefighter with the Logan-Rogersville Fire Protection District in 1994, and joined the Springfield Fire Department in 1998. He promoted to the ranks of rescue specialist, truck company captain, fire captain and battalion chief. As battalion chief, he served in the operations division, as the chief of special operations, and as the acting assistant fire chief of the training division. He became the assistant fire chief of operations in 2010.

“I am thankful to the selection committee and City Manager Greg Burris for the confidence they have in me to lead the Fire Department. The City of Springfield is a special place, and I am honored to work with the officers and firefighters of the SFD, and our partner agencies, in service to our community,” Pennington said.

Pennington has been awarded designation as a Chief Fire Officer through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, and was selected as the 2015 Fire Officer of the Year by the Springfield Fire Department. He has been a faculty member of Missouri State University’s Department of Communication since 2005.

Pennington obtained a bachelor of science degree in organizational communication and a master of science in administrative studies from MSU. He also holds a graduate certificate in public management from the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Pennington is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Missouri Valley Fire Chiefs Association, Queen City Fire Chiefs Association, Region-D Regional Homeland Security Oversight Committee and the Fire Science Advisory Board for Ozarks Technical Community College, and serves as the fire service representative to the advisory board for the Missouri Information Analysis Center.

Pennington serves on the boards of directors for the Ozark Trails Council of the Boy Scouts of America, Leadership Springfield and the Community Investment Panel for the United Way of the Ozarks. He is married and has two sons.

Budget workshop set for Springfield City Council lunch meeting

Springfield City Council Lunch 
Tuesday, May 30, 2017 12:00 p.m. 
Busch Municipal Building – 4th Floor Conference Room 840 N. Boonville Avenue 

TENTATIVE AGENDA

1. Budget Workshop – Greg Burris and David Holtmann

2. Any and all matters to come before the City Council cc: Megan Cunningham, City Clerk's

Wednesday, May 24, 2017

Agenda posted for Tuesday Springfield City Council meeting

Upcoming Springfield City Council Meeting Agenda
May 30, 2017 6:30 p.m.
1.

ROLL CALL.

2.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES. May 15, 2017

Documents:
  1. 5-15-2017.PDF
3.

FINALIZATION OF CONSENT AGENDA – FIRST READING. Citizens Wishing To Speak To Or Remove Items From Consent First Reading Must Do So At This Time.

4.

CEREMONIAL MATTERS.

5.

CITY MANAGER REPORT AND RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS RAISED AT THE PREVIOUS CITY COUNCIL MEETING.

6.

SECOND READING AND FINAL PASSAGE. Citizens Have Spoken. May Be Voted On.

7.

Council Bill 2017-124. (Hosmer)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Missouri Solid Waste Management District “O,” for use of the City’s Household Chemical Collection Center to provide expanded household collection service to additional counties in the District, and adjusting the budget of the Environmental Services Department for Fiscal Year 2016-2017, in the amount of $18,000 to appropriate grant funds from the District. (Environmental Services staff recommends approval).
Documents:
  1. 2017-124.PDF
8.

Council Bill 2017-125. (Fishel)

A special ordinance authorizing the amendment of the Department of Environmental Services budget for Fiscal Year 2016-2017, in the amount of $1,885,000, to appropriate retained earnings of the Solid Waste Fund; accepting the low bid of Twehous Excavating Co., Inc., for construction of the South Ravine Phase II solid waste disposal unit at the City of Springfield Sanitary Landfill; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee to enter into a contract for said improvement.
Documents:
  1. 2017-125.PDF
9.

Council Bill 2017-126. (Fulnecky)

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into an agreement with the Center for Public Safety Excellence/Commission on Fire Accreditation International for facilitation of the Community Driven Strategic Planning process and related documents at a cost of $15,120.
Documents:
  1. 2017-126.PDF
10.

RESOLUTIONS. Citizens May Speak. May Be Voted On.

11.

Council Bill 2017-130. (Ferguson)

A resolution extending the declaration of an economic and housing access calamity until the condition is no longer met, Springfield, Missouri’s “individuals below poverty level” is less than the state’s level, or March 31, 2019, whichever occurs first. (Staff recommends approval.)
Documents:
  1. 2017-130.PDF
12.

EMERGENCY BILLS.

13.

PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS.

14.

GRANTS.

15.

AMENDED BILLS.

16.

COUNCIL BILLS FOR PUBLIC HEARING. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On.

17.

Council Bill 2017-131. Schilling.

A general ordinance Amending Section 1-9 of the Springfield City Code, ‘City Limits,’ by annexing approximately 0.02 acres of property into the City of Springfield, Missouri, generally located at 3610 West Sunshine Street, generally referenced as Annexation A-3-17; and amending the Springfield City Code, Chapter 46, Section 46-1, ‘Boundaries of wards, precincts and council zones,’ by adding this property to the ward and precinct assigned them by the County Clerk.
Documents:
  1. 2017-131.PDF
18.

Council Bill 2017-132. Schilling

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately one acre of property, generally located at 3610 West Sunshine Street from County PAD 1281, Plot Assignment District No. 1281, to HC, Highway Commercial District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By Atomic Distributors Midwest, Inc; 3610 West Sunshine Street; Z-17-2017)
Documents:
  1. 2017-132.PDF
19.

Council Bill 2017-133. Prater

A general ordinance amending Section 1-9 of the Springfield City Code, ‘City Limits,’ by annexing approximately one acre of property into the City of Springfield, Missouri, generally located at 4825 East Kearney Street, generally referenced as Annexation A-2-17; and amending the Springfield City Code, Chapter 46, Section 46-1, ‘Boundaries of wards, precincts and council zones,’ by adding this property to the ward and precinct assigned them by the County Clerk.
Documents:
  1. 2017-133.PDF
20.

Council Bill 2017-134. Prater

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately one acre of property, generally located at 4825 East Kearney Street from County M-1, Light Manufacturing District, to HM, Heavy Manufacturing District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By M & L Real Estate Holdings, LLC; 4825 East Kearney Street; Z-16-2017)
Documents:
  1. 2017-134.PDF
21.

Council Bill 2017-135. Prater

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 0.68 acres of property, generally located at 1748 and 1756 South Madaline Terrace, from R-SF, Residential Single Family district to a O-1, Office District, subject to certain conditions; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By Stephen & Kristina Stewart; 1748 & 1756 South Madeline Terrace; Z-18-2017)
Documents:
  1. 2017-135.PDF
22.

Council Bill 2017-136. Fishel

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 9.8 acres of property, generally located at 4406 South Reed Avenue and 4219 South Nature Center Way from R-SF, Residential Single-Family District and R-MHC, Manufactured Home Community District, to R-TH, Residential Townhouse District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By Luxury Rental Home, Inc. and Timbercreek RV Park, LLC; 4406 South Reed Avenue and 4219 South Nature Center Way; Z-13-2017)
Documents:
  1. 2017-136.PDF
23.

Council Bill 2017-137. Schilling

A general ordinance amending the Springfield Land Development Code, Section 36-306, ‘Official zoning map and rules for interpretation,’ by rezoning approximately 0.46 acres of property, generally located at 1630 and 1638 West Elfindale Street from Planned Development No. 46, to a GR, General Retail District; and adopting an updated Official Zoning Map. (Staff and Planning and Zoning Commission recommend approval). (By Plaster Properties, LLC; 1630 West Elfindale Street; Z-19-2017)
Documents:
  1. 2017-137.PDF
24.

Council Bill 2017-138. Hosmer

A general ordinance amending Resolution No.10206 and Special Ordinance No. 26867 and suspending a provision of the City’s Rules and Regulations for the Comprehensive Housing Assistance Program to comply with a change in the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development’s interpretation of certain regulations regarding the expenditure of Community Development Block Grant funds.
Documents:
  1. 2017-138.PDF
25.

Council Bill 2017-139. Ferguson

A special ordinance repealing Special Ordinance No. 26592 and adopting in lieu thereof a Redevelopment Plan for the Robberson Avenue Multi-Family Redevelopment Area, generally located along the east side of South Robberson Avenue between East Madison Street and East Grand Street; and declaring its redevelopment necessary for the preservation of the public peace, prosperity, health, safety, morals, and welfare. (The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and City Staff recommend approval.)
Documents:
  1. 2017-139.PDF
26.

Council Bill 2017-140. Schilling

A special ordinance adopting the Redevelopment Plan and Blight Report for the Lantz Enterprises Redevelopment Area, generally located along the south side of East Elm Street between South John Q. Hammons Parkway and South Florence Avenue; and declaring said Area to be a blighted area, and that its redevelopment is necessary for the preservation of public peace, prosperity, health, safety, morals, and welfare. (The Land Clearance for Redevelopment Authority, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and Staff recommend approval.)
Documents:
  1. 2017-140.PDF
27.

Council Bill 2017-141. Hosmer

A special ordinance setting a preliminary tax levy on real and personal property for current expenses and debt retirement of the City of Springfield, Missouri, and its boards and agencies for Fiscal Year 2017-2018; and declaring an emergency.
Documents:
  1. 2017-141.PDF
28.

Council Bill 2017-142. McClure

A special ordinance adopting a budget for the City of Springfield, Missouri, for Fiscal Year July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018, providing that certain amounts shown in the budget document are appropriated for the various departments specified in said budget, and declaring an emergency.
Documents:
  1. 2017-142.PDF
29.

FIRST READING BILLS. Citizens May Speak. Not Anticipated To Be Voted On.

30.

Council Bill 2017-143. Fisk

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to accept Strengthening the Field initiative grant funds in the amount of $300,000 from the Missouri Foundation for Health to subsidize a community mental health assessment and action plan and to enter into necessary agreements to carry out the grant; and amending the budget of the Springfield-Greene County Health Department for Fiscal Year 2016-2017 in the amount of $300,000.
Documents:
  1. 2017-143.PDF
31.

PETITIONS, REMONSTRANCES, AND COMMUNICATIONS.

Mr. Bob Mondy wishes to address City Council.

Mr. Javier Benson wishes to address City Council.
32.

NEW BUSINESS.

The City Manager recommends the following reappointments to the Airport Board: Jerry Harmison and Sterling Huff with terms to expire June 1, 2020.

The City Manager recommends the following appointments to the Airport Board:  Catherine Moore and Lloyd “Joe” Carmichael with terms to expire June 1, 2020.

Refer to the Finance and Administration Committee the issue of sustainable funding.

Refer to the Finance and Administration Committee the issue of level property tax.

Refer to the Finance and Administration Committee the issue of economic vitality.

Refer to the Plans and Policies Committee the issue of public safety initiatives.

Refer to the Community Involvement Committee the issue of legislative emphasis.

Refer to the Finance and Administration Committee the issue of the Building Development Services fee schedule.

As per RSMo.109.230 (4), City records that are on file in the City Clerk’s office and have met the retention schedule will be destroyed in compliance with the guidelines established by the Secretary of State’s office.
33.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS.

34.

MISCELLANEOUS.

35.

CONSENT AGENDA – FIRST READING BILLS. See Item #3.

36.

Council Bill 2017-144. Ferguson

A special ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development to accept the dedication of the public streets and easements to the City of Springfield, Missouri, as shown on the Preliminary Plat of Wehr’s Chestnut Plaza Subdivision, generally located at 501 West Chestnut Expressway, upon the applicant filing and recording a final plat that substantially conforms to the preliminary plat; and authorizing the City Clerk to sign the final plat upon compliance with the terms of this Ordinance. (Staff recommends that City Council accept the public streets and easements).
Documents:
  1. 2017-144.PDF
37.

Council Bill 2017-145. Fishel

A special ordinance authorizing the Mayor, on behalf of the City of Springfield, to execute a deed to convey approximately 4,282 square feet of property generally located at the 6500 block of South Crenshaw Road. (Planning and Zoning Commission and staff recommend approval).
Documents:
  1. 2017-145.PDF
38.

Council Bill 2017-146. Fulnecky

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a Pipeline Crossing Agreement with Burlington Northern Santa Fe, for the purpose of installing and maintaining a new concrete box culvert beneath the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad tracks in the vicinity of the 4100 Block of Lone Pine.
Documents:
  1. 2017-146.PDF
39.

Council Bill 2017-147. Fulnecky

A special ordinance authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a cost share agreement with Green Circle Projects, LLC, for the purpose of cost coordinating participation by the City in the cost of the Lone Pine Streetscape 4100 South Block project.
Documents:
  1. 2017-147.PDF
40.

Council Bill 2017-148. Fishel

A special ordinance authorizing the Director of Planning and Development to accept the dedication of the public streets and easements to the City of Springfield, Missouri, as shown on the Preliminary Plat of Vinings of Olde Ivy Subdivision, generally located at 4406 South Reed Avenue & 4219 South Nature Center Way, upon the applicant filing and recording a final plat that substantially conforms to the preliminary plat; and authorizing the City Clerk to sign the final plat upon compliance with the terms of this Ordinance; and concurring with the Planning and Zoning Commission’s grant of a subdivision variance. (Staff recommends that City Council accept the public streets and easements).
Documents:
  1. 2017-148.PDF
41.

CONSENT AGENDA – ONE READING BILLS.

42.

Council Bill 2017-149. Schilling

A special ordinance to levy and assess a special tax against the lots, blocks, and parcels of ground hereinafter described to pay for the cost of the construction of sanitary sewers in the City of Springfield, Missouri, in Sanitary Sewer District No. 91 of Section No. 1, in the general vicinity of College Street and Broadway Avenue; providing for inclusion of said district in the City Sewer Financial Assistance Program; authorizing the City Clerk to issue special tax bills and deliver the same to the Director of Finance to be registered in his office in accordance with this Ordinance; and declaring that this bill qualifies for approval in one reading.
Documents:
  1. 2017-149.PDF
43.

CONSENT AGENDA – SECOND READING BILLS.

44.

END OF CONSENT AGENDA.

45.

ADJOURN.